Fraser hopes to lead Griffins to elusive AHL title

Press Photo/Lance WynnCurt Fraser is the eighth coach in the Grand Rapids Griffins' history after recently coaching the Belarus national team.

GRAND RAPIDS -- Even when Curt Fraser's coaching career took him to the NHL and Belarus, he always had the Grand Rapids Griffins in the back of his mind.

As he was introduced as the Griffins' eighth coach during a Wednesday morning news conference at Van Andel Arena, Fraser spoke about how excited he was to join the American Hockey League affiliate of the defending Stanley Cup champion Detroit Red Wings.

"They're always a competitive team," Fraser said. "And being partnered with the best team in hockey, this was a great opportunity for me to come in, work, learn, and hopefully advance myself back into the NHL."